BATESVILLE, Arkansas — In recognition of Black History Month in February, Batesville native James L. “Skip” Rutherford III, dean emeritus of the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service and member of the Lyon College Board of Trustees, has generously donated a curated selection of Black history books to the Mabee-Simpson Library at Lyon College.
This is the third consecutive year Rutherford has contributed to the collection, which now includes 54 volumes dedicated to celebrating and preserving Black culture and history.
The 20 new titles added this year include powerful works that highlight the lives of influential African American leaders and the broader cultural and historical contributions of Black Americans. Among the additions are “Stayed On Freedom: The Long History of Black Power through One Family’s Journey” by Dan Berger, “Medgar and Myrlie” by Joy Reid, “Black Women Taught Us” by Dr. Jenn M. Jackson, and “Night Flyer: Harriet Tubman and the Faith Dreams of a Free People” by Tiya Miles.
Rutherford emphasized the importance of making these resources accessible to students and the broader community.
“Black history has been underrepresented for years. Continuing to expand the Black History Collection at the Lyon College library provides more access and resources for students, faculty and staff,” he said. “These books tell important stories of struggle, perseverance and triumph, and I hope they inspire readers to reflect on the past while striving for a more just future.”
Rutherford, who served as dean of the Clinton School of Public Service from 2006 to 2021, has long been committed to advancing education and public service. A proud Batesville native, Rutherford has also served as a visiting professor at Lyon College and has consistently supported its mission of preparing students to think critically.
“This acquisition is symbolic of the broader progress our school has made over the years. From its early days, where books on diversity were limited, to now, where our library’s shelves feature an increasingly wide range of voices and perspectives, the school has come a long way,” said Dr. Branndii Peterson, executive director of TRIO and Black Student Association adviser at Lyon College. “The decision by board member Rutherford to acquire these amazing books, aligns with the school’s ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. These books are more than just a resource; they are an acknowledgment of the school’s role in shaping a curriculum that mirrors the diversity of the world outside its walls.”
For the latest additions to the collection, Rutherford partnered with Lyon College Digital Media Librarian Fable Sonia-Bolduc to carefully curate a selection of titles that includes not only historical accounts but also works on contemporary issues such as racial justice and Black cultural contributions.
To honor Rutherford’s contributions, the Mabee-Simpson Library will feature a special exhibit showcasing the expanded Black History Collection throughout February. The exhibit, open to the public, will coincide with Lyon College’s Black History Month celebration, which includes weekly events open to students, faculty, staff and the general public.
For more information and to visit the Mabee-Simpson Library online, please access https://libguides.lyon.edu/home.
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About Lyon College
Lyon College is a private, liberal arts institution founded in 1872. Located in Batesville, Arkansas, Lyon is the oldest college in the state with its original charter. Ranked by US News & World Report as a 2024 “Best College,” Lyon currently enrolls approximately 660 students from more than 30 states and 18 countries. Students can tailor their education, selecting from 25 majors, as well as pre-professional and individualized options. Learn more at lyon.edu.
Photo Courtesy of Lyon College
Dr. Branndii Peterson, Lyon College Black Student Association (BSA) adviser, BSA member Alexis Whitley, BSA President Cliff Washington, and Tamija Tucker-Mayes, BSA adviser, review new Black History Collection selections in the Lyon College Mabee-Simpson.
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CAROL LANGSTON | Director of College Communications
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Karin Huffman is an Independence County native who graduated from Cushman High School in 1996. Traveling throughout the state is one of her passions, along with writing about her adventures.
Taking over as travel writer for the Ozark Gateway Region is a dream come true for Huffman who lives in the region with her two daughters, Grace and Stella.
As a family, they enjoy canoeing the Poke Bayou, Salado Creek and the many waterways along the White River in Independence County. Camping and hiking throughout the region is a must for them in the spring and fall as well.
Huffman is an avid nature photographer who will do just about anything to find the perfect waterfall shot, and has visited many in the great state. From Twin Falls and the Richland Creek area in Northwest Arkansas to little known places off the beaten path, waterfalls will be found.
Huffman has been a travel writer for the Eye on Independence Magazine as well as a staff writer for the Batesville Guard, and is looking forward to devoting her time to traveling throughout the eight county region that the Ozark Gateway offers.
If you would like to contact Huffman about an adventure or would like to know how to get more information out about your area, contact her at 870-307-5473, karinhuffman78@gmail.com or karinozarkgateway@sbcglobal.net.